MP calls for action on energy bills

An MP has called for action to tackle energy bills and ensure that business customers get a fair deal, warning that small firms are being hit hard by high prices.

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) this week launched a campaign to highlight the impact rising gas and electricity bills have had on smaller retailers, and Labour MP for Coventry South Jim Cunningham is among those who have responded to the publicity drive.

Research carried out by the industry group found that some 36 per cent of independent retailers had been overcharged for energy over the past year, with more than a quarter receiving back-dated bills.

“We need a strong push to put an end to market practices that harm small retail businesses,” said ACS chief executive James Lowman. “If we can get the energy market working better then it will have an immediate impact on the costs of thousands of small businesses.”

Earlier this month, a survey carried out by YouGov and electrical services distributor Rexel found that 81 per cent of participants were not fully aware of how much they were spending on energy bills.